Ericeira
Portugal
Attractions & Events in Ericeira
Discover the top attractions, events, and festivals in Ericeira, Portugal
Top Attractions
Capela da Boa Viagem
A 15th-century chapel that served as a beacon and protector for fishermen.
Tips: Located above Praia dos Pescadores; provides a terrace with views over the beach.
Chapel of São Sebastião
A quaint 17th-century chapel overlooking the Atlantic, known for its simple yet captivating design.
Tips: Visit during late afternoon for serene ambiance and stunning sunset views.
Ericeira Market
A vibrant market offering local flavors and handmade crafts.
Tips: Try the locally crafted sheep cheese; the market is also a hub for community events.
Fort of Milreu
A 17th-century fortress built to defend against maritime access to Ericeira.
Tips: Located 3km north of Ericeira; offers insights into Portugal's coastal defense history.
Forte de Nossa Senhora da Natividade
A fort built in 1706 to defend the fishing port and Praia dos Pescadores.
Tips: Features a unique 'U' shaped design; underwent restoration and opened to the public in 1976.
Igreja de São Pedro
Ericeira's main church, dating back to 1446, featuring baroque and rococo interiors.
Tips: Dedicated to St. Peter; showcases paintings and tile panels illustrating his life.
José Franco Village Museum
A recreated traditional Portuguese village offering insights into rural heritage.
Tips: Engage in pottery sessions and explore working miniatures; don't miss the on-site craft shop.
Mafra National Palace
A grandiose baroque palace and convent, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Tips: Located 15 minutes from Ericeira by car; accessible via the Ericeira-Lisbon bus.
Miradouro da Baleia
A viewpoint above Praia do Sul, offering some of the best photo opportunities in Ericeira.
Tips: Features benches for contemplation; popular for sunset views.
Miradouro Foz do Lizandro
Offers stunning views of the ocean, Foz de Lizandro beach, and the town of Ericeira.
Tips: Accessible via a coastal hike from Ericeira; ideal for nature enthusiasts.
Miradouro Praia dos Pescadores
A viewpoint in the center of Ericeira offering views over the beach and harbor.
Tips: Climb to the top for panoramic views; a great spot for photography.
Miradouro Praia Sul
A favorite spot to admire the sunset and view Praia do Sul.
Tips: Located near the Vila Galé Ericeira Hotel; offers stunning ocean vistas.
Old Town
A charming area with narrow cobblestone streets, white houses edged in blue, and picturesque squares.
Tips: Perfect for leisurely strolls; don't miss the local cafes and artisan shops.
Praia da Foz do Lizandro
A spacious beach featuring both river and sea, protected by cliffs and equipped with a boardwalk.
Tips: Ideal for families; the boardwalk has bars and restaurants open beyond the bathing season.
Praia do Sul
A popular beach with golden sands and clean waters, ideal for families and surfers alike.
Tips: Located a short walk from the town center; the nearby hotel offers a seawater pool open to the public.
Praia dos Pescadores
A central beach known for its fishing boats and as the departure point of Portugal's last king into exile.
Tips: Offers a high wall viewpoint popular for selfies and panoramic views.
Praia Ribeira d'Ilhas
Renowned as one of the world's best surfing beaches, hosting international competitions.
Tips: Even if you're not surfing, enjoy the natural amphitheater setting and vibrant atmosphere.
Santa Marta Park
A green oasis in Ericeira, perfect for relaxation and leisurely walks.
Tips: Ideal for picnics; includes sculptures and a play area for children.
Seafood Restaurants
Ericeira is famed for its fresh seafood, with many restaurants serving fish caught the same day.
Tips: For a seafood feast, visit the restaurants facing the Atlantic in Ribamar, about 3km north of the center.
Tapada Nacional de Mafra
A former royal hunting reserve now offering various outdoor activities.
Tips: Explore on foot, by bicycle, or on horseback; home to diverse wildlife including deer and wild boar.
Events & Festivals
Art & Crafts Fair
An annual fair showcasing local artisans' creations, from handmade jewelry to traditional pottery, highlighting the region's artistic heritage.
When: August
Tips: Support local artisans by purchasing unique souvenirs. Bring cash, as some vendors may not accept cards.
Ericeira Surf Fest
An annual surfing competition attracting surfers worldwide, accompanied by surf-related activities, workshops, and live music.
When: August
Tips: Even if you're not a surfer, enjoy the beach parties and vibrant atmosphere. Check the event schedule for workshops and music performances.
FIMI – International Music Festival
A festival celebrating diverse musical genres with performances from both renowned and emerging artists, set in a seaside location.
When: August
Tips: Explore a variety of music styles and participate in workshops. The seaside setting enhances the overall experience.
Nossa Senhora da Boa Viagem Festival
A religious festival honoring Our Lady of Good Voyage, featuring a maritime procession of boats, traditional music, dance performances, and local food stalls.
When: August
Tips: Witness the beautiful boat procession along the coast and immerse yourself in the local maritime heritage. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot.
Ericeira Carnival
A vibrant parade featuring elaborate floats and dazzling costumes, celebrating creativity and community spirit.
When: February
Tips: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot along the parade route. Join in the festivities and enjoy the lively music and dance performances.
Sumol Summer Fest
A vibrant music festival combining hip-hop, reggae, dancehall, house, and pop, set against the coastal backdrop of Ericeira.
When: July
Tips: Experience a weekend of music, surfing, and skateboarding. Book accommodations early, as the festival attracts large crowds.
Santos Populares (Popular Saints Festival)
A cultural tradition celebrating popular saints with live music, dancing, and traditional Portuguese sardine barbecues.
When: June
Tips: Join the festivities in Largo de São Pedro, where locals and visitors gather for nine days of celebration. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and local cuisine.
Sea Urchin Festival (Festival do Ouriço-do-Mar)
A gastronomic celebration dedicated to sea urchins, featuring tastings, cooking demonstrations by top Portuguese chefs, and special dishes in local restaurants.
When: March
Tips: Visit local markets on weekends for raw sea urchin tastings paired with artisanal beer and wine. Attend cooking demonstrations to learn unique recipes.